Professor Nadia Massoud chose to recognise Cassie Kozyrkov, who founded the field of Decision Intelligence at Google.

"She pushed boundaries by integrating the field of AI and decision science. Her achievements inspired my teaching and research on blockchain, which sits at the crossroad of disruptive technology and finance," Professor Massoud said.

For Professor Glenn Hoetker, the impact a businesswoman can have on a community was exemplified by his mother Julie Hoetker, who ran a grocery store in rural Illinois for 23 years.

"I saw the impact she had on her employees, customers and the whole community. She also served as city treasurer, chaired the county health department and much more – all as a single mother," he said.